Chiang Rai

Things to see and do

Hilltribe Museum and Population and Community Development Education Centre

The Hill Tribe Museum is funded by famed Thai philanthropist Meechai's PDA and serves as a handy primer for anyone considering heading trekking from Chiang Rai. The museum includes a brief overview and photographic display covering some of the hill tribes you are more likely to visit. A lengthy ... read more
Wat Phra Kaew

This is the most highly revered wat in Chiang Rai. Legend has it that in 1434 the stupa was struck by lightning and fell apart to reveal the Emerald Buddha. From that moment on, the statue travelled, visiting Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Ayutthaya, Lopburi, Kamphaeng Phet, Chiang Mai, Lampang and Vientiane ... read more
Wat Phra Singh

Constructed in 1385, this wat is regarded as a fine example of Lanna-style architecture. Note the twin sets of peacocks that flank the bot entrance and the white bunnies straight out of Alice in Wonderland at the back of the compound entranceway, along with the tree which has a Buddha for each day ... read more
The Clock Tower

This is a new tower built to commemorate His Majesty the King's 80th birthday and to replace an old and tatty version. It's gold, gaudy, brash and something of an assault on the eyes, but it really comes into its own at night. It doesn't do its tricks every evening and the timings seem a bit ... read more
Ban Kamlar traditional steam

Just a short walk from Chiang Rai's morning market, this traditional steam house is a good spot to sooth your trekked out limbs. Prices are very reasonable.
Hilltribe Treks

Trekking is one of the biggest attractions for travellers in Chiang Rai. The opportunity to get out into the jungle on foot or on an elephant is something that goes hand in hand with a trip to Thailand. Treks vary in length and challenge. Itineraries vary a little, but as a general rule, a two- to ... read more
The Mae Kok River Trip

The Mae Kok runs wide and handsome through the centre of Chiang Rai on its way to the Mekong. Many feel it is much under used and there have been local rumblings about a river festival -- Travelfish will be the first to let everyone know if that comes about. At the moment the river trips are to Tha ... read more
The White Temple

The White Temple was completed after much controversy and debate, but has now become a real attraction for international and local tourists. It is about 13 km south of Chiang Rai on Superhighway 1. The work of Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, it is, needless to say, completely white. To say it's ... read more
Chiang Rai Beach

Given that the nearest bit of sea is about 1,000 km away, it would be reasonable to question this spot's name. The 'beach' is a very pleasant park bordering the Mae Kok, River, where there are stalls selling food and sit down places to eat a snack or Thai meal. The park is all very quiet and ... read more